California
Nature|Hiking

11 Amazing Southern California Hikes Under 3 Miles You’ll Absolutely Love

Southern California offers a variety of scenic and challenging hiking trails suitable for all skill levels.

Updated Mar 12, 2022

Written by 

Angela

There are times when you want to get out in nature, but you don't have an entire day or even just an afternoon to take a long hike. If you're seeking a quick outing in Southern California that will make you feel refreshed and recharged, these scenic trails ranging from a half mile long all the way up to three miles will get you outside in the fresh air while you explore some of the most scenic spots in SoCal. Don't be fooled by their short length- these are some of the best hikes in California!

1. El Dorado Nature Center

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flickr/tracie hall

You'll love the scenic hike and the lush green trails at this 105-acre nature center located in Long Beach. With short trails under three miles that showcase the beauty of this natural setting, you may just want to loop around a second time.

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Read more about the El Dorado Nature Center here.

2. Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

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flickr/corey seeman

For a scenic 3-mile loop at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, take the Mesa Trail and the Pocket Loop Trail for a perfect hike out in nature that is short and sweet.

Learn more about Bolsa Chica.

3. Redwood Grove Trail/Carbon Canyon Regional Park

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yelp/bonnie o.

Take a walk through the redwoods on this tree-lined trail tucked inside Carbon Canyon Regional Park. You'll be surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees in this Southern California grove of Redwoods.

Read more about Redwood Grove Trail.

4. The Bayside Trail/ Cabrillo National Monument

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yelp/kenneth K

When you head to San Diego there is one hike that should be on everyone's bucket list -- the Bayside Trail at Cabrillo National Monument. Along this two-mile hike you'll experience an intoxicating view of San Diego Bay that is the perfect sight to see on a breezy SoCal day. This is a great kid-friendly hike.

Learn more about the Bayside Trail and Cabrillo National Monument.

5. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

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flickr/daniel pouliout

One of the shortest hikes on this list coming in at just one mile, you can get a great workout on this short but steep uphill incline that offers a breathtaking payoff at the top with a magnificent panoramic view.

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Read more about Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook.

6. Ferndell Trail/Griffith Park

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yelp/michelle b.

Enjoy a quick burst of nature on this half-mile roundtrip trail located inside Griffith Park. The Ferndell Trail may not be a long trail, but it's definitely packed with tons of beautiful scenery including lush greenery, a pond, and even a fairy tale bridge that looks like it could be right out of a storybook. If you're always searching "hiking trails near me," trust us- this is the one to take!

Learn more about Ferndell Trail/Griffith Park here.

7. Point Dume

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flickr/liza agsalud

For one of the most awe-inspiring views of the Santa Monica Mountains and Point Mugu, you better head out on this two-mile trail in Malibu that offers both mountain and ocean views that will take your breath away. This is one of the most scenic hikes in California.

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Learn more about Point Dume here.

8. Oak Oasis Open Space Reserve

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All Trails/Mike Heidebur

Enjoy a peaceful and relaxing hike with lakeside views along this trail in San Diego County that offers a nice and refreshing 2.7 mile loop. The trail is fairly flat and easy to navigate which makes it a great option for the whole family to enjoy for a short hike out in nature.

Read more about Oak Oasis here.

9. The Way Up Trail/Elfin Forest

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All Trails/Dda Neuro

Although there are many trails to choose from within Elfin Forest, The Way Up Trail to Harmony Overlook is the trail you'll want to take when you're seeking a quick hike outdoors. This two-mile loop offers a variety of scenery and stunning nature views along the entire trail.

Learn more about the Way Up Trail here./a>

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10. Oak Glen Preserve

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all trails/oak glen preserve

Located within Oak Glen Preserve you'll find a variety of nature trails to explore inside this sprawling natural oasis. When you only have time for a short hike, you'll want to take the Oak Glen Divide Trail which is just under 2.5 miles.

Read more about Oak Glen Preserve here.

11. San Clemente Beach Trail in San Clemente, CA.

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yelp/tuscany m.

Take a walk along the trail at San Clemente Beach for ocean views and a relaxing vibe. The entire length of the trail from the metro stop is just under 2.5 miles. For a trail that's 3-miles round trip, just turn around at the 1.5 mile marker and you'll have yourself a perfect short hike for the day.

Learn more about San Clemente Beach Trail here.

Doesn't this list make you want to get outside and go on a hike right this second?! Any favorites on this list? A few of my favorites include Elfin Forest and El Dorado Nature Center.

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For more hikes and outdoor activities in Southern California, make sure to head to our home page at Only In Southern California where he have hundreds of spaces and places for you to explore right here in Southern California.

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Nature|Hiking

The 3-Mile Hiking Trail in Northern California That is a Fall Foliage Wonderland

Enjoy stunning colorful foliage, waterfalls, and more on an epic fall hike through Lundy Canyon.

Published Oct 10, 2024

Written by 

Natasha Kayes

I grew up in California, so it surprises some people to know that fall is my favorite season. I’ll admit that fall weather here can be a bit unpredictable, and it takes more effort to find that stunning foliage the season is known for, but perhaps that’s part of what makes it special, too. When we do find those pockets of color, I think it sparks an extra sense of appreciation and wonder. You simply have to know where to look. If you are up for a bit of a challenge that comes with great rewards, set off for the fall foliage wonderland in Lundy Canyon.

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Tanyon Stiller/AllTrails

The Lundy Canyon Trail is not long - just three miles in one direction - but it does involve a few steep climbs, water crossings, and loose rocks. Bring good shoes, plenty of water, and trekking poles for the best experience. For a relatively short hike, this one packs a punch and the views span from end to end.

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Kara Maceross/AllTrails

The trailhead begins along Mill Creek at the end of Lundy Lake Road, in a grove of lovely Aspen trees. Anyone who doesn’t think we have striking fall foliage in California has never stood among quaking aspens this time of year when the leaves turn from dark green to shades of lime, gold, orange, and even red.

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Jay Burke/Alltrails

Almost immediately you’ll begin to discover the hidden gems that make this trail so special. You’ll pass no less than three gorgeous waterfalls, meadows, small lakes, beaver ponds, and the ruins of an old trappers’s cabin - all flanked by brilliant fall colors. In fact, you’ll reach an awesome view of the first waterfall just half a mile in from the trailhead.

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Bob Kubrick/AllTrails

At just about the two-mile mark, after passing two more tumbling cascades, you will come to a magnificent view of Lundy Canyon with streams of yellow and orange spilling down the canyon walls. At this time of year, the valley floor sparkles with dense pockets of vibrant trees, streams, and ponds. This is an idyllic spot to pause and enjoy lunch or a snack while you soak in the views.

Even if you stopped here and returned to the trailhead, it would be well worth it. However, the trail continues another mile through a few little switchbacks and a steep climb to Lake Helen.

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Reiko S/AllTrails

The cool, crisp weather and glorious display of fall foliage make the Hoover Wilderness a beautiful place to explore. If you decide to set up camp for a longer adventure, no reservation is required but overnight stays do require a wilderness permit, which you can get at one of the Inyo National Forest visitor centers. 

Are you ready for a fall wonderland adventure? Have you ever hiked the Lundy Canyon Trail during the fall? We would love to hear about your experience. Be sure to take a peek at more of our favorite fall adventures and activities in Northern California. And if you often find yourself on the trail, check out AllTrails+ for expert navigation, offline maps, trail conditions, and much more.

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Nature|Hiking

Hike the Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail in California for an Unforgettable Adventure

Explore rocky bluffs, tide pools, and more on the magnificent Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail in Los Osos, CA.

Published Oct 8, 2024

Written by 

Natasha Kayes

My discovery of the Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail in Los Osos, CA, was a happy accident that fueled my love for this beautiful state. A friend and I were exploring a nearby area and decided to follow a road to see where it led. Where we ended up was quite possibly one of the most beautiful coastal hikes in the state.  

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Natasha Kayes/OnlyInYourState

This scenic, rugged oceanfront park has hills, cliffs, beaches, campgrounds, and lots of wonderful trails to explore. The park is easily accessible from the little town of Los Osos. From Highway 101, take Los Osos Valley Road through town until it turns into Pecho Valley Road, then continue almost four miles to Spooner Cove. It was actually the first view of the Cove that made us stop here the first time. There are a couple of options for parking. I usually go past the cove turn-off and park in the spaces along the road near the trailhead. You can also park in the Spooner Cove lot. Look for a short trail past the restrooms that leads up to the roadside parking area. The trailhead is at the end of the Bluff Trail Parking.

AllTrails says this easy 4-mile hike generally takes less than an hour and a half to complete, but it takes me quite a bit longer. Every vista point is worth savoring (pro tip: make sure your phone has plenty of storage available for photos!), and there are a couple of good reasons to leave the trail for a bit.

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Natasha Kayes/OnlyInYourState

The views start immediately. In fact, the first overlook is about a quarter-mile from the trailhead, halfway out to the point, and gives you a spectacular view of the rock formations around Spooner Cove. This first part of the trail goes out to the edge of the bluffs and has a branch that loops back to the beginning of the trail, less than a mile in total, if you’re just up for a short but picturesque adventure. There is also a public restroom along the way.

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Natasha Kayes/OnlyInYourState

The jagged, layered rocks and rock islands that have been carved along this part of the coast are truly breathtaking. And the trail follows the edge closely so you constantly see and hear the waves crashing on them - I find it mesmerizing. You also receive awesome views of the mountains on the opposite side of the trail, and during spring and summer, loads of orange poppies and wildflowers in between.

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Natasha Kayes/OnlyInYourState

Several tiny paths lead from the main trail to the very edge, where I always take way too many photos. One path leads to a small bridge and a staircase down to the beach where you can - and should - explore the extensive tide pools full of crabs, sea stars, anemones, and other marine critters. There are multiple areas with more tide pools to explore if you’re willing to climb around a little! If you can, try to time your visit during lower tides.

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Natasha Kayes/OnlyInYourState

I highly recommend bringing snacks and planning at least half a day to really enjoy your Bluff Trail adventure. Whether it’s a bright summer day (bring sunscreen), a chilly fall morning, or a cool, foggy afternoon that requires a cozy sweatshirt, I am never disappointed by this place. I am positive you won’t be either. The trail is family-friendly but you’ll have to leave your fur-baby at home for this one. Have you ever explored Montaña de Oro State Park or hiked along the incredible Bluff Trail? Share your experience with us in the comments! 

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